When my 9-year-old son, Peter, was in renal failure and on peritoneal dialysis I was told that a transplant would be a "life changing" experience. That was a major understatement.

The entire transplant process and work up went extremely well. The physicians and nurses were incredibly informative and caring, and called us numerous times at home to discuss the surgery. They also referred us to physicians at other hospitals to discuss options with them. By the time we had a surgery date in September, 2001, we felt confident and all of our questions had been answered.

The surgery went smoothly and the post op care we received was top notch.

Life without dialysis and with a functioning kidney is far more than a "life changing" experience. It has been a chance at a second life; one with a healthy, happy child, one without dialysis and constant worry, one without restrictions. It has been an uplifting experience to see my son feel so well and have the energy to play sports again. And, in his own words, "I have never felt better in all my life."

As a result of such a positive experience, I have become a strong advocate for transplants. Life is so good and so very much appreciated!

Peter's Story

Hi, I'm Peter Johnston, and I got a kidney transplant.

One Wednesday in September at 6:30 the nurse woke me up and said I had to take a bath with special soap and then get into my gown. After that they took me down to the operating room and I met all the surgeons. And before I knew it I was asleep. It seemed like only a couple of minutes to me, but it was really five hours. The next day I had to walk. I hated it. But, it got better and better, and before I knew it I was out of the hospital. It is two months since I had my kidney transplant, and I feel great!!!